Flap Surgery

Periodontal Flap Surgery

In patients affected by gum disease, bacteria and tartar often hide beneath the gum lines and threaten to cause infection and bone destruction. Standard cleanings are unable to reach beneath the gum lines to remove these harmful buildups.

What is flap surgery?

Flap surgery is a procedure that greatly improves the health of a patient’s gums by allowing Dr. Alger to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar that are found beneath the gum line. In this procedure, the gums are gently reflected away from affected teeth so that Dr. Alger can fully see the roots and appropriately clean the infected area.

What is the surgery like?

Prior to the day of the procedure, Dr. Alger will meet with you to discuss any questions you may have. On the day of the flap surgery procedure, you can expect the following:

Your gums will be treated with a numbing solution and a local anesthetic will be delivered to keep you comfortable.

Dr. Alger will gently work to reflect the gums, making sure that you are comfortable as he progresses.

With great precision, Dr. Alger will clean the tartar deposits that have built up under the gum line.

Once the gums have been cleaned, small sutures will be used to reposition gums to the teeth.

During your recovery, you may experience slight discomfort. Overall, our patients are surprised by how well they feel during recovery.

The recovery period is typically brief. Most patients have sutures (stitches) removed at one week with no complication.